2nd quarter project
Due:
What makes a person a leader? More often than not, leadership is demonstrated by people who show
great courage and integrity without the expectation of reward. These people can be relied upon to do the
right thing despite the opinions and behaviors of others, exemplifying moral character, discipleship and
showing extraordinary service to the people of God.
Choose and watch one of the following films:
That’s What I Am
The Elephant Man
Mask
Shindler’s List
The Green Mile
The Last Samurai
Awakenings
Grand Torino
On the
Pay it Forward
Amistad
The Rookie
A Man for all Seasons
Motorcycle Diaries
Gandhi
Philadelphia
Radio
After viewing the film, write a two page minimum, three page maximum report detailing the character
(fictional or genuine) who exemplifies the core values of our class work. To be graded on content,
creativity and whether or not you follow directions. This paper must be typed, in standard format and is
worth 25% of your 2nd quarter grade. It can be typed in Q & A or Essay format. A well developed essay will
always earn the maximum grade.
Explore the following questions in full sentences, using specific examples from the film:
1. Provide a short summary of the film. (no longer than 175 words)
2. Determine the moral leader of the story. Briefly explain your reasons for choosing this character. Reflect
on this person and include the following information:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Their name?
Describe this person including their life history?
Does he/she have a family? If so, describe what their family life like?
Which type of society does this person live in? Which era?
Describe his/her position in the culture of the film. Is your person comfortable with their place in
the world? Why or why not? Explain.
3. Reflect on our course work so far: would you consider this person to be moral? Do they have qualities
found in an ethical and decent person? If so, what are they? Describe these qualities or characteristics,
giving specific examples about why you consider this person/character to be honorable.
4. Each of these films has a moral lesson. Think about and describe the message of the film. What is it
specifically? By word or actions or both, what is this story trying to teach us? Explain your answer.
5. When people stand up for what is right and just genuine change occurs. What did your moral leader do
to bring about authentic change? Describe the actions, attitude and thought process they used to engender
change in the people and culture (surroundings) of the film. In other words, did these actions upset or
change the "goings on” surrounding this person? In what way? Explain.
6. Rarely do we act without reason and at times action is taken in response to human suffering or injustice.
What motivated or moved this person to take action on behalf of the people of God, and what occurred as
a result of these actions?
7. Do you agree with the choices your leader made? Why or why not?
8. Recall the 7 themes of Catholic Social Teaching. Which of these themes is reflected in the actions and
attitudes of your person? Explain in detail.
9. Do you feel this person/character shares any qualities with any other Christian Leader you are familiar
with? Name at least one and be specific. What are the similarities or differences you consider important?
10. Explain what did you admire or dislike about this person.
You may add as much information as you desire but please do not subtract.